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Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Finding the middle ground
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I think there’s an untapped market for a device that splits the difference between a tiny handheld and a regular-sized laptop computer. I’ll link to an article here that spells out the advantages.
There are people - I’m one of them - who want a decent-sized screen, the ability to type rather than stab at a screen or keyboard with a thumb or fingertips, and enough computing power to do real work on occasion.
I hate the weight of a laptop when travelling but a palm-sized device, or an iPhone for that matter, just don’t fit with how I want to work. I’m not saying that I’m typical but I am saying that I’m not alone.
Too many laptops are designed to compete with desktop machines when it comes to processor power, storage and utility. I would be glad to trade all that power for something small enough to carry without spraining my shoulder. Too many palm-sized devices have tiny screens and - while great for checking e-mail - are awkward if you need to write more than three sentences.
I agree with the article I’ve linked that current attempts to create devices for this middle market are failures. But I also agree that doesn’t have to be so.
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